Request for information: Mauriitan biodiversity, ecotourism

[Tania van Schalkwyk]

To Whom it may concern:

I am writing to urgently request information regarding ecotourism & the
biodiversity of Mauritius. In particular, regarding the role of islets
in
sustaining the marine & flora (as well as bird life) ecology of the
area.
There are currently plans to build a high class village of villas and
camping/recreational site on an island named L'isle aux Benitiers on the
southwest coast of Mauritus. The hotel would take up 50 harpents and a
third
of the island would remain a nature reserve for migrating birds. Though
how
a reserve can be sustained next to such development is questionable.
Also,
the arguments being put forth are that the island is already exploited
by a
coconut plantation, and therefore of not much ecological  conservation
value. This may be true for most of the flora value (even though there
are 2
rare plant species on the islet). However, the islet is situated in one
of
the last relatively unspoilt areas of coral reefs. It has a rich mollusc
population of clams, mussels, oysters, "tec tec" "ti poulle"and "ash
d'am"
(please excuse the colloquial terms used as I am not a scientific
officer).This planned development is being put forth as a development
that
would not disturb the environment. A 1994 report by Bell (Wildlife
Management International Ltd), reccomendation stated "no overnighting"
and a
2001taskforce report(Mauritian ministry of the environment) reccomended
the
islet  be used for "eco-tourism". I could go on about the many other
important aspects of this islet in the ecosystem of the area; as well as
the
cultural significance of its location directly opposite a typical
fishing
village with a strong Maharathi & Kreol culture. These are just some
quick
ideas & thoughts around the issue. Should you require more information
please ask me.
However, I am not an "expert" . I am a concerned citizen (amongst many
others) and wish to gather as much information as possible around the
biodiversity/sociocultural importance of the islet.  My aim is to inform
myself and others so that the Mauritian nation can make a wise and
informed
choice around the future of this islet, which could set a precedent for
the
future of other such islets and the ecology & culture of Mauritius and
the
Indian Ocean.
I therefore request any information possible, as well as useful
contacts, as
soon as possible; as plans for the project seem to be rushing ahead. Is
there an organisation/individual who can come and conduct a study? If
so,
what are the procedures?
I thank you for taking the time to read this and help me. I apologise if
my
approach is unorthodox and informal, but as I said I am a concerned
citizen
with a time limit!
I look forward to your favourable reply.
Yours Sincerely,
Tania (Haberland) van Schalkwyk
(a concerned citizen)

Below please find a copy of a letter I have sent regarding the issue
mentioned above. Your input (if appropriate) would be much valued.
Thankyou.
****************************************************************************
********************************************************************
Dear Concerned citizen/expert/activist:

I am a citizen concerned about the plans to develop l'ile aux Benitiers,
on
the southwest coast of Mauritius. In the past 2 weeks, I have been
phoning
around, emailing and meeting with people: government departments,
ecologists, scientists, journalists, fishermen & other concerned
citizens;
to :
1.try and see what impact this project would have on the ecosystem the
islet
is such a crucial part of.
2. get a general idea of what people think & feel about plans around
l'ile
aux benitier.
3. become involved and help in any actions being taken to stop an
irresponsible project taking place on the islet.

Based on my research,

* I get the idea that most people (not all) -expert & non;  are opposed
to
the current plans to build an haute de gamme villas complex (100 rooms),
as
well as a camping and loisir site with a small bird nature reserve. This
is
because the general opinion is that such a development would disturb the
environment: marine and terrestrial of the area with serious
biodiversity
repurcussions.

* I sense that the government has many conflicting
reports/opinions/policies
regarding l'ile aux Benitiers and other islets. That this could lead to
an
irresponsible development going ahead seems very possible.

Therefore, I am writing to you:

1. To offer my help and any information I have to any organisation or
person(s) taking action regarding l'ile aux Benitiers. Please let me
know
asap. I am also willing to meet with interested parties.

2. To seek your help with the following project:

I am compiling a list of opinions & statements regarding:
- the "haut de gamme" villas complex/camping site/small reserve proposal
for
L'ile aux Benitiers;
-as well as about any development plans for the islet.
- and in general about the ecosystem of the southwest of Mauritius:
biodiversity, sociocultural & environmental impact.

These statements are to be used in a petition (soon to be launched) and
a
press release/article.

I request as many opinions/statements as possible.
Please send them to me ASAP, preferably by tomorrow noon (Thursday the
21st
of February 2002). Late submissions are welcome, but may not be able to
be
used.

With your statement, please provide the following details:
1. whether you wish to remain anonymous or be referenced
2. your job title (optional)
3. In what capacity you are making this statement: expert or non-expert;
if
expert please give details.
4. Include any references, policies, reports, audits you know of to
support
your statement
5. Your consent (or non-consent) for me to use them in either the
petition,
and/or the press release/article.
6. Contact details:(optional) which will remain confidential.

Please forward this letter to anyone you know of who may contribute.

I thank you for your time and help. I look forward to your favourable
reply
and of helping you in return.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any queries or comments.

Yours Sincerely,

Tania (Haberland) van Schalkwyk
A concerned citizen
*************************************************************************
Only after the last tree has been cut down,
Only after the last river has been poisoned,
Only after the last fish has been caught,
Only then will you find that money cannot be eaten.
-Cree Indian prophecy.
~~~~~~~
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